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Entry Level Laboratory Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

The entry level position is designed to train the new technician on each of the four (4) analytical aisles in the QC laboratory. In this role, they will prepare process and finished product samples ...

The entry level position is designed to train the new technician on each of the four (4) analytical aisles in the QC laboratory. In this role, they will prepare process and finished product samples ...

Lab Technician |

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

The entry level Laboratory Technician must have completed training on one aisle prior to their transition to the Laboratory Technician I position. Aside from learning the skills necessary for ...

The entry level Laboratory Technician must have completed training on one aisle prior to their transition to the Laboratory Technician I position. Job Responsibilities: Complete both plant and ...

Collects potable water and wastewater samples and performs laboratory analysis such as, pH ... Assists in the training of entry level operators and lower classifications of operators (II and ...

Entry Level Laboratory information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$12

$23

$48

How much do entry level laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level laboratory in Decatur, IL is $23.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $25.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Laboratory Technician, and why are they important?

To succeed as an Entry Level Laboratory Technician, you need attention to detail, foundational knowledge of laboratory procedures, and at least a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with common lab equipment, safety protocols, and basic data entry or laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and teamwork in the lab. These skills are crucial for maintaining precise results, supporting scientific research, and upholding safety and quality standards.

What are some typical daily tasks for someone in an entry-level laboratory position?

In an entry-level laboratory role, your daily tasks often include preparing and labeling samples, conducting routine tests under supervision, maintaining lab equipment, and accurately recording data. You may also be responsible for cleaning and organizing workspaces, as well as adhering to safety protocols. Collaboration with senior technicians and scientists is common, providing valuable opportunities to learn and gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques.

What are entry level laboratory jobs?

Entry level laboratory jobs are positions in scientific labs that require minimal prior experience and often serve as the starting point for careers in laboratory sciences. These roles typically involve tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, operating laboratory equipment, recording data, and maintaining a clean work environment. Entry level lab jobs are found in various industries, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and research institutions. They often require at least a high school diploma or associate degree, though some may prefer or require a bachelor's degree in a science-related field. These jobs provide valuable hands-on experience and can lead to more advanced positions with additional training and education.

How to become a lab technician with no experience?

To become a lab technician with no experience, start by obtaining a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree in fields like biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Gaining basic laboratory skills through coursework or internships, and earning certifications such as OSHA safety training, can improve employability; entry-level positions often provide on-the-job training.

What is the difference between Entry Level Laboratory vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectEntry Level LaboratoryLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degreeHigh school diploma or associate's degree, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentEducational labs, research facilities, healthcare settingsClinical, research, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, healthcareHospitals, biotech companies, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Laboratory and a Laboratory Technician lies in experience and job scope. Entry Level Laboratory roles are typically for individuals starting their careers with minimal experience, focusing on basic lab tasks. Laboratory Technicians often have similar credentials but may have more hands-on responsibilities and specialized skills. Both roles are essential in various industries like healthcare, research, and manufacturing, and often overlap in entry-level positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Decatur, IL? For Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Entry Level Laboratory jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Entry Level Laboratory job openings:

Laboratory Technician - Decatur, IL

ADM

Decatur, IL

$20.92/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


ADM rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 178 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

100th of 336 rated logistics


Job description

108270BR

Job Title:

Laboratory Technician - Decatur, IL

Department/Function:

Operations: Manufacturing, Production, Maintenance, Utilities

Job Description:

Laboratory Technician - Decatur, IL

Corn Plant

This is a full-time, hourly position.

Pay Rate: $20.92/hour plus shift differential when applicable

Shift(s) Available: Shift would vary on availability/seniority. Could be 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or a rotating shift which entails working multiple shifts within the week. Must be available to work weekends, holidays, overtime, 8-12 hour shift when scheduled.

Learn more about ADM, click the links below;

https://youtu.be/VeGTVcFFJuo

https://www.adm.com/en-us/culture-and-careers/

Why Join?

  • Weekly Pay
  • Benefits Start First Day
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Insurance
  • On-site 24/7 FREE medical care facility
  • Health and Wellness Incentives
  • Membership to ADM Wellness Center (Gym membership)
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401K/ESOP, pension with ADM (Archer Daniels Midland) matching contributions
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Short & Long-Term Disability
  • Company Paid Life Insurance and Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees,' Spouse and Children
  • Parental leave (paternity/maternity)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Perks at work (discount program with several companies)

Expectations:

The entry level position is designed to train the new technician on each of the four (4) analytical aisles in the QC laboratory. In this role, they will prepare process and finished product samples; perform analytical testing using instrumental and wet chemistry procedures, and record results using computerized data systems. The entry level Laboratory Technician must have completed training on each aisle prior to their transition to the Laboratory Technician I position.

Aside from learning the skills necessary for advancement to the next level the entry level technician must also:

  • Complete both plant and laboratory safety orientations
  • Work safely to prevent on-the-job injuries by complying with all department and plant safety policies
  • React immediately to eliminate any hazards, unsafe equipment and/or acts. Additionally insures that any accidents, injuries and near misses are reported immediately to area supervision
  • Perform at least one Laboratory Safety audit per month
  • Complete at minimum 3 safety engagements each month
  • Willingness and ability to work within the time demands of a 24/7/365 workday operation
  • Demonstrate sufficient math skills to perform calculations associated with lab testing
  • Demonstrate ability to accept instruction, coaching, and constructive criticism as tools for continuous improvement
  • Demonstrate computer skills
  • Perform other duties as assigned by quality department management

Requirements (General):

  • This position requires 8-hour rotating shifts and must be flexible to work overtime as needed.
  • Training should be completed during the first year on the job.
  • Delay or failure to meet established training goals may delay promotion to the next level as well as lead to disciplinary action up to and including termination.

All technicians will be expected to show continuous improvement in all areas of KPI tracking. Performance issues will be addressed to ensure that the Entry Level Laboratory Technician has the opportunity to correct any of these concerns. Issues that cannot be corrected with the coaching process may lead to disciplinary action.

Requirements (Technical):

  • Each employee should possess a solid understanding of a laboratory environment and a working knowledge of cGMP, FDA, and other regulatory requirements.
  • Familiarity with Laboratory Instrumentation including HPLC, GC, and IC is beneficial.
  • New technicians are certified in each area around 60 days from when they begin working an aisle alone.
  • Laboratory Technician III and Supervision members watch them perform required tests to ensure they have been properly trained prior to sign off.
  • The Entry Level Laboratory Technician position requires no previous laboratory experience, but completion of a college science lab is preferred.
  • Experience in lieu of college laboratory experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.

REF:108270BR

Req/Job ID:

108270BR

City:

Decatur

State:

IL - Illinois

Ref ID:

#LI-DNI

:

About ADM

At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.

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#IncludingYou

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.

We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law

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Benefits and Perks

Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:

  • Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
  • Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
  • Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).

Additional benefits include:

  • Paid time off including paid holidays.
  • Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
  • Tuition assistance.
  • Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.

*Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.

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Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.

If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

The pay for this position is expected to be:

:

$20.92/hr plus shift differential when applicable.


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